Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte wants President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos to comment on the relief of 35 officers and officials of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).

“I would like to get a comment from DILG and maybe the president what they think about this issue because they are hardworking policemen. Daghan kaayo tag problema sa Pilipinas nga pwede ninyo i-address,” Duterte said.

The city’s top cop, six station commanders, and more than 20 other police officers were relieved from their posts while investigation into the drug-related killings in the city is ongoing.

Seven people were killed during separate buy-bust operations from March 23 to 26, 2024. The police claimed that the suspects fought back during the operations.

The administrative relief of the 35 cops did not sit well with the city’s chief executive. He condemned the move and called it unfair.

Still, Duterte said the relief of the 35 cops will not affect the city government’s war against illegal drugs.

“I reiterate my declaration that this city is at war against drugs and that is very clear. The life of criminals wa koy labot ninyo because they are here only to harm innocent people… kung nabuhi mo patyon tamo og usab,” Duterte said.

DCPO’s new chief, Col. Rolindo Suguilon, assured that the campaign against illegal drugs and other forms of criminality will continue.